Rachel's Response to Northanger Abbey

1. Northanger Abbey was first book Austen sold, but one of the last to be published. After reading four of her other novels, could you tell this was an earlier piece of work from Austen. Why or why not? 
After reading four of her other novels, I could tell this was written differently. It is hard to describe, but the whole vibe of the novel felt younger, innocent, and more naïve compared to her other novels. The material/story was light, not heavy or complicated, had more of an adventurous spirit and an overall easier read for me. I think the young simplistic wild imagination that was constantly throughout the novel made it feel as though it had a younger vibe. Another reason why it might have felt younger was because Catherine, the main heroine, was written younger. She was very daft, naïve, and oblivious to what was happening around her. So maybe the younger feel of the novel came from the innocence’s of Catherine’s character.

2. Imagination played a large role in Catherine's character, did you find this enjoyable to read or frustrating?
As the reader you are constantly jumping in and out of Catherine’s imagination. Whether she is imaging people high jacking her carriage, or trying to uncover hidden secrets of Northanger Abbey (e.g. trying to find secret manuscripts or trying to discover what really happened to Mrs.  Tinley). I wouldn’t say it was frustrating to read, as a matter of fact, I quiet enjoyed this novel and one of the main reasons why was because of Catherine’s imagination. Putting Austen novels aside, I can’t think of another book that I have read that was similar to this story line. It was unique and definitely kept my interest. It was a bit confusing in the beginning trying to figure out what was actually happening verses what was in her imagination. But once you figure it out it makes it very enjoyable to read.

3. Do you believe Northanger Abbey is a love story or coming of age story? Explain.
I would say this is definitely not a love story, but a coming of age story. It was kind of awkward how Austen threw in the engagement between Henry and Catherine all of a sudden in the end. I had to re-read the engagement part a few times because I didn’t even realized he proposed until I read spark notes. I also found it weird that he realized he loved her only because he knew that she loved him. Shouldn't one fall in love with a person because you can’t imagine your life without them and that you care greatly for them, and not solely based on the fact you found out that they love you? I thought that part was a little weird and wasn’t romantic at all. I do feel as if this was a coming of age story for Catherine. We followed her growing up through her imagination. She starts off the novel full of reading books, and to a certain extent, becoming too engrossed in them and actually believing it is happening to her all the way to the end of the novel when she takes her imagination to another level by accusing General Tinley of murdering his wife, which forces her to realize she has taken things too far and as a result tones down her imagination.

4. How does Catherine Morland compare to Austen's other heroines that we have read?
She is young, oblivious, daft, innocent, and has a wild imagination. Most of Austen’s heroines are strong female characters that are often preoccupied with trying to improve their social status and marry a rich handsome man. Catherine was very different in the sense that she was more interested in reading, adventures, and exploring rather than focusing on finding a husband or worrying about fortune or her future.

5. Were you able to personally relate to any of these characters? If so who and how
Yes and no. I was not able to relate to these characters in the way I have been able to relate to Austen characters in the past four novels we have read. While I was reading Catherine’s character it brought me back to childhood and reminded me of the innocence that comes with childhood and letting my imagination run wild. While other Austen characters inspire me, or remind me of where I’m at during this time in my life, I was able to relate to Catherine in a way of the past, and remembering how I was when I was younger, going through life full of imagination.  

6. Would you recommend this novel to a friend?
Yes, I definitely would. It was a quick read and was a very interesting gothic/imaginative/coming of age story. No, it wasn’t as romantic as Pride and Prejudice; no, it wasn’t laugh out loud as Emma was; and no, Henry Tinley is in no way close to becoming my literary boyfriend, Mr. Darcy has secured that status. But with all that said, this novel was full of adventure, wild youthful imagination, and gothic satire. It also doesn’t fit the typical Austen mold of girl trying to marry up. Great, interesting, and unique read!  


When I was reading the introduction to this novel, I found it interesting that this was the first novel Austen sold but it was never published. Instead Austen bought it back from the publishers and it was released posthumously.  I wonder why the publishers never published the novel, was in too controversial? Did they not think it would be the right fit for their readers? Or did they just forget they bought it? I guess we will never know, but it still makes me wonder why they never published this novel after they bought it.
Anyways, switching gears a bit, my mom and I watch the masterpiece theater movie of Northanger Abbey and I must say I thought the movie was really well done. I highly recommend this movie version of Northanger Abbey. It followed the novel pretty well, the acting was good, and the costumes/scenery was so beautiful.
OhMyGosh can you believe it? Only one more Austen novel to go! I am feeling bitter sweet about our next novel. I’m very excited to read Persuasion, I’ve been looking forward to this novel ever since we started our Austen series for the book club, but at the same time I’m sad to be wrapping up Austen.  But I am thoroughly enjoying this book club! I’m so glad you all are a part of it!!! I cannot wait to read everyone’s responses to Northanger Abbey and see what everyone thought about it.
Till next time,
Happy Reading!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!